Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1925 - 1927

This handwritten letter to Philip Zilcken was composed by Lya Berger. Though undated, it speaks to the artistic networks and exchanges of the early 20th century. Berger's personal correspondence provides a glimpse into the life of a woman artist navigating the art world. In her letter, Berger references shared impressions of Algeria, revealing the cultural fascination with North Africa that permeated European artistic circles at the time. The tone of the letter suggests a warm relationship, indicative of the interpersonal dynamics within the art scene. She says that her brother is already "seized with the impressions of Algeria" and wishes to encourage him. Berger also mentions her work and asks Zilcken for advice. She expresses the hope that her recent endeavors are not forgotten, touching on the emotional stakes involved in artistic creation and reception. This letter allows us to reflect on the labor, both creative and social, required for an artist like Berger to sustain her practice, while confronting the challenges and opportunities that defined her artistic journey.